Blood tests are an important tool for determining the risk of heart disease. How are blood tests used to determine the risk of heart disease?
Blood tests measure certain components of the blood, such as cholesterol, triglycerides, and other markers, to assess the risk of developing heart disease. When would I need blood tests to determine heart disease risk?
Your doctor may recommend a blood test if you have risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease. Who performs the blood tests?
Blood tests are typically performed by a healthcare professional, such as a nurse or phlebotomist. What parts of the blood do the tests measure to find heart disease risk?
The tests measure levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and other markers that can indicate the risk of heart disease. How do I prepare for the blood test?
You should follow your doctor’s instructions for preparing for the test, which may include fasting for 8-12 hours before the test. What should I expect during the test?
During the test, a healthcare professional will draw a sample of your blood, usually from a vein in your arm. What happens after the blood draw?
After the blood draw, the sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis. What type of results will I get, and what do the results mean?
Your doctor will review the results of the test and explain what they mean. When should I know the results of the test?
The results of the test may take several days to be available. When should I call my provider?
If you have any questions or concerns about the test, you should contact your doctor.
References
- American Heart Association. (2020). Blood Tests for Heart Disease Risk. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-health/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/blood-tests-for-heart-disease-risk
- Mayo Clinic. (2020). Cholesterol Test. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cholesterol-test/about/pac-20384912
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). Blood Tests. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/blood-tests/
Keywords: blood tests, heart disease risk, cholesterol, triglycerides, healthcare professional